beyondblue

The mental and physical health of medical students and doctors in Australia is an ongoing concern within the medical profession and community. Research and media reports have highlighted the high rates of suicide, depression, anxiety, substance use and self-medication throughout the profession.

In February/March 2013, a national survey of Australian medical students and doctors was conducted by beyondblue and its key partners. The survey followed on from the findings of The Mental Health of Doctors – A systematic literature review which found that there was limited research examining issues associated with the mental health of medical students and doctors that is specific to the Australian context. There were no studies examining mental health issues relating to Indigenous or rural and remote doctors.

The key objectives of the survey were to:•better understand the issues associated with the mental health of Australian medical students and doctors•increase awareness across the medical profession and broader community of issues associated with the mental health of medical students and doctors.•inform the development of mental health services, programs and support for medical students and doctors to address the prevalence of depression and anxiety.